Plotter
A plotter is a specialized type of printer that produces
vector graphics drawings by moving a pen, knife, or other drawing tool across
the surface of paper or other materials. Unlike standard printers that
create images from dots, plotters draw continuous lines, making them suitable
for large-format output like architectural plans, engineering schematics, and
detailed maps.
Key Characteristics of Plotters:
· Vector-based Output:
Plotters generate images
by drawing lines based on vector graphics data, which allows for precise and
scalable drawings.
· Large Format Printing:
They are commonly used
for large-format printing, such as architectural and engineering drawings, and
can handle various media sizes.
· Drawing Tools:
Plotters utilize
different tools like pens, pencils, markers, or even knives (in cutting
plotters) to create the desired output.
· Applications:
Plotters are used in various fields including architecture, engineering,
graphic design, mapping, and advertising.
Types of Plotters:
· Pen Plotters:
These use one or more
pens to draw lines on the paper, with the pen moving across the x and y axes to
create the image.
· Flatbed Plotters:
The paper is placed on a
flat surface, and the pen or writing tool moves across both x and y axes to
draw the image.
· Drum Plotters:
The paper is wrapped
around a drum, and the pen moves along one axis while the drum rotates to
create the other axis.
· Electrostatic Plotters:
These use charged toner
on negatively charged paper to create the image.
· Inkjet Plotters:
These combine inkjet printer technology with vector graphics to create
detailed color drawings.
In contrast to printers that produce raster
images (made up of dots), plotters excel at producing sharp, accurate, and
large-scale vector graphics.
Comments